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10,000 Friends of Pennsylvania, an environmental group devoted to “smart growth” across the state, has recognized two PHA developments with Commonwealth Awards for Design.
The group recognized Ludlow Scattered Sites and Nellie Reynolds Gardens with Bronze Awards. The developments were among 12 recognized throughout the state, out of a total of 40 contest entries. PHA was the only housing authority recognized in the competition.
“These developments reflect our commitment to the people of Philadelphia and the communities in which they live. By building modern, energy efficient homes we are able to revitalize neighborhoods while also reducing the impact on the environment. We appreciate this recognition and the validation of our efforts,” said PHA Executive Director Carl Greene.
Ludlow, located between Center City and Temple University, is a mix of 192 homeownership and rental units built in partnership with APM (Asociacion de Puertorriquenos en Marcha), a PHA partner. It has revitalized a neighborhood that had deteriorated for years, dating back to the 1940’s.
This 22-square block development is probably PHA’s most complex development in recent years. The contest judges recognized Ludlow for stabilizing the neighborhood and a commitment to building energy efficient housing, incorporating LEED design standards.
“This will have the dual benefit of making the ongoing maintenance of these houses more affordable for their low-income occupants and improving the overall energy efficiency of the community,” said Gary Hack, chairman of the awards committee and former dean of the University of Pennsylvania School of Design.
Nellie Reynolds Gardens, a 64-unit senior development located at Ridge and Glenwood Avenues in North Philadelphia, ushered in a new era of environmentally friendly public housing.
The building features a 24,000 square foot “green” roof that absorbs rainwater and prevents it from running off into an already over-taxed city sewer system. The green roof also retains heat during winter and has a cooling effect in the summer, reducing energy usage from 10 to 20 percent.
PHA built Nellie Reynolds Gardens using “Green Label” carpet (for better indoor air quality), environmentally friendly paints and primers that reduce emissions between 13 and 14 percent, and Energy Star appliances and fixtures. An adult daily living center is also being developed on the site to help seniors continue to live in the community with their families, rather than going to a nursing home.
“The incorporation of green building techniques, including a vegetated roof reduces the buildings environmental footprint, and demonstrates the Authority’s commitment to sustainability,” Hack said.
The judges said PHA is a model for other public housing authorities around the state because it used visionary techniques in the development of Ludlow and Nellie Reynolds Gardens.
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